Comparing Loob to Makarov for HHOF eligibility is reasonable, and I think Loob comes out pretty well.
Before he came to Calgary, he was already a star in the SEL, and was optimistically being labelled "the Swedish Gretzky". In Calgary he was outstanding,and a big component in the powerhouse teams of the late '80s. His seasons in the NHL were better than Makarov's, and although Makarov had flashier skills, I'd argue Loob was a more complete (200 foot) player, in addition to having a 50 goal season. In 1990, when Gretzky was asked what was wrong with the Flames (with Makarov, but bounced inthe first playoof round), his answer: "They missed Loob".
When he returned to Sweden, he continued to be a star, and then a "builder" executive. He's as important to Swedish hockey as Makarov is to Russian hockey. He should be in the hall.
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